UNEP/GFC/OEWG.1/14 - Report of the Open-ended Working Group of the Global Framework on Chemicals – for a Planet Free of Harm from Chemicals and Waste on the work of its first meeting [Final version]
عربي | 中文版 | English | Français | Русский | Español
-------------------------------------------------
Global Framework on Chemicals Unites Stakeholders Worldwide
Chemical pollution is one of the biggest threats to human health and the environment today—yet it’s also one we have the tools to solve. The Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC), adopted in 2023, brings together governments, industry, civil society, and international partners to drive action. As a voluntary, multi-stakeholder initiative, the GFC sets out a clear path—with five strategic objectives and 28 measurable targets—to reduce harmful chemical impacts, promote safer alternatives, and protect human and environmental health across industries and supply chains
A key step in advancing this work took place last week in Punta del Este, Uruguay, with the inaugural meeting of the Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) under the GFC. Held from 24–27 June 2025, the landmark event convened more than 600 participants from across the world. Attendees represented government ministries, industry leaders, trade unions, NGOs, academia, and youth—all united in their commitment to accelerating progress on safe and sustainable chemicals and waste management.
Over four days of structured dialogue, technical exchanges, and cross-sector engagement, participants made meaningful progress on core components of GFC implementation. These included discussions and work on advancing Implementation Programmes, the Global Framework on Chemicals Fund, the Gender Action Plan, and the Global Alliance on Pesticides. The meeting also advanced thinking around emerging policy issues, financing strategies, inter-agency cooperation, and practical ways to integrate chemicals management into broader sustainable development agendas.
“One of the most encouraging outcomes of this meeting was the level of energy and cross-sector collaboration we’ve seen,” said Kay Williams, Head of the GFC Secretariat. “Whether it's a government policy maker, business leader, or sustainability officer, everyone here recognizes that safe and sustainable chemicals management is not a side issue—it’s a shared priority for health, the environment, and sustainable development.”
A highlight of the week was Multistakeholder Day on 26 June, which spotlighted sector-specific strategies in finance, textiles, electronics, and healthcare. Participants took part in expert panels, open dialogues, and interactive sessions designed to foster knowledge exchange and co-create solutions. Throughout the week, special masterclasses provided participants with tools and guidance to strengthen country-level implementation of the Framework.
Side events added further depth, covering topics such as chemical footprinting, digital solutions for supply chain transparency, and data-driven approaches to sustainable chemicals management.
The outcomes of OEWG-1 will help shape preparations for the first International Conference on Chemicals Management, scheduled for 2026. As the GFC moves from commitment to implementation, the Secretariat and its partners remain focused on translating collective ambition into lasting results—for people, for ecosystems, and for future generations.
For more information, please visit the Global Framework on Chemicals website or contact the secretariat at unep-gfc.secretariat@un.org
Meeting report: The draft meeting report is available in the "in session documents and statements" tab.
ENB coverage: View daily coverage by ENB/IISD.
